Technical Specifications
| Model Number | WFS |
| Product Name | Waterflow Switch |
| Category | Flow Detection Device |
| Certification | UL Listed (UL353), FM Approved |
| Manufacturer | Maple Armor / Tongfang |
| Warranty | 3-Year Standard |
| Detection Type | Paddle-type Flow Detection |
| Contact Configuration | SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) |
| Contact Rating | 5A @ 30VDC, 3A @ 250VAC |
| Contact Material | Silver Cadmium Oxide |
| Flow Rate Range | 10-400 GPM (38-1514 LPM) |
| Pressure Rating | 250 PSI (17.2 bar) Maximum |
| Operating Temperature | 32°F to 140°F (0°C to 60°C) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°F to 160°F (-40°C to 71°C) |
| Humidity Range | 0% to 95% RH (Non-condensing) |
| Enclosure Rating | NEMA 4X, IP66 Waterproof |
| Enclosure Material | Corrosion-resistant Aluminum |
| Mounting Type | Inline Pipe Installation |
| Pipe Sizes | 1" to 10" (25mm to 250mm) |
| Dimensions (Body) | 7.0" x 4.0" x 3.0" (178mm x 102mm x 76mm) |
| Weight | 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) |
| Wire Gauge | 12-22 AWG |
| Terminal Type | Heavy-duty Screw Terminals |
| Connection Type | Normally Open / Normally Closed |
| NFPA 13 Compliance | Yes (2019 & 2022 Editions) |
| NFPA 72 Compliance | Yes (2019 & 2022 Editions) |
| Expected Life | 1,000,000 mechanical cycles |
Detection Mechanism Types
Paddle Type
Mechanical paddle detects flow
Pressure Type
Pressure differential detection
Vane Type
Vane-operated switch mechanism
Water Flow Detection Demo
Detects water flow when sprinklers activate - Click to simulate
Product Overview
The WFS Waterflow Switch is an essential component in automatic fire sprinkler systems, designed to detect water movement when sprinklers activate. This critical safety device provides immediate notification to building occupants and emergency responders, significantly reducing response time and minimizing fire damage through early detection.
Flow Detection
Accurate detection of water flow in sprinkler systems.
Instant Alert
Immediate notification to fire alarm systems.
Adjustable
Field adjustable for different flow requirements.
Key Characteristics
Flow Detection: Paddle-type mechanism for reliable sensing
Durable Construction: Corrosion-resistant aluminum housing
Adjustable: Field adjustable flow settings (10-400 GPM)
Flexible Configuration: Normally open or normally closed operation
Electrical Rating: 5A @ 30VDC heavy-duty contacts
Pressure Rating: Up to 250 PSI operation
Primary Applications
Commercial
Office buildings, retail centers
Industrial
Manufacturing, warehouses
Healthcare
Hospitals, medical facilities
Educational
Schools, universities
Critical Safety Component: Waterflow switches are required by NFPA 13 for all automatic sprinkler systems. Statistics show that properly functioning sprinkler systems with reliable waterflow detection control or extinguish 96% of fires where they operate. The WFS provides this critical early warning that can mean the difference between minor damage and catastrophic loss.
Product Features
Mechanical Features
- Paddle-type flow detection mechanism
- Silver cadmium oxide contacts for long life
- 5A @ 30VDC, 3A @ 250VAC contact rating
- Field adjustable flow settings (10-400 GPM)
- Visual flow indicator for at-a-glance status
- 1,000,000 mechanical cycle life expectancy
- Manual test lever for periodic verification
Construction Features
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum housing
- NEMA 4X, IP66 weatherproof rating
- Heavy-duty construction for industrial use
- Inline pipe installation design
- Heavy-duty screw terminal connections
- Conduit entry with sealing grommet
- Tamper-resistant cover with lock
Electrical Features
- SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) configuration
- Normally open or normally closed operation
- 12-22 AWG wire compatibility
- Compatible with Class A or Class B wiring
- End-of-line resistor compatible
- Low current supervisory circuit monitoring
Installation Features
- Inline installation in sprinkler pipe
- Fittings included for 1" to 10" pipes
- Complete installation hardware provided
- Clear, illustrated installation instructions
- Visual position and status indicators
- Test lever for easy periodic verification
- Drain port for system winterization
Code Compliance: NFPA 13 requires waterflow detection devices on all automatic sprinkler system risers. The WFS must be installed downstream of the control valve and upstream of the system's first sprinkler to ensure proper detection. Regular testing and maintenance are required by NFPA 25 to ensure continued reliability.
Installation & Configuration
Horizontal Mount
Horizontal pipe installation
Vertical Mount
Vertical riser installation
Riser Mount
Main system riser installation
Installation Guidelines
- Install downstream of control valve
- Mount on horizontal pipe where possible
- Ensure proper pipe size compatibility
- Follow NEC and NFPA requirements
- Use proper pipe threading techniques
- Ensure weatherproof installation outdoors
- Test switch operation after installation
Wiring & Configuration
Circuit Type
Initiating device circuit (Class A/B).
Contact Configuration
Set as normally open or normally closed.
Flow Setting
Adjust for specific system requirements.
Testing
Verify operation with test valve.
Installation Steps
- Verify sprinkler system is drained and safe to work on
- Select appropriate location on sprinkler pipe
- Cut pipe and install flow switch using provided fittings
- Adjust flow setting according to system requirements
- Route wiring in approved conduit to switch location
- Connect wires to heavy-duty screw terminals
- Seal conduit entry with provided waterproof grommet
- Test switch operation using test valve
- Verify fire alarm system receives waterflow signal
- Complete installation documentation and testing records
- Label flow switch with appropriate identification
- Provide maintenance and testing instructions to owner
Required Installation Locations
System Riser
Main sprinkler system riser.
Cross Mains
Cross main piping sections.
Branch Lines
Large branch line sections.
Compatibility & Applications
Compatible Systems
- Maple Armor FW2000 Series FACP
- Maple Armor FW2100 Series
- Maple Armor FW2200 Series
- Most fire alarm control panels
- Addressable and conventional systems
System Compatibility
- Wet pipe sprinkler systems
- Dry pipe sprinkler systems
- Pre-action sprinkler systems
- Deluge sprinkler systems
- Combined sprinkler systems
Sprinkler System Types
Wet Systems
Constantly charged with water.
Dry Systems
Charged with air until activation.
Pre-action
Double interlock protection.
Benefits
Early Warning: Immediate fire detection notification
Code Compliance: UL353, FM, NFPA compliant
Reliability: Industrial-grade construction
Weatherproof: NEMA 4X rating for all environments
Long Life: 1,000,000 mechanical cycles
Easy Maintenance: Simple testing and adjustment
Insurance & Regulatory Benefits: Proper installation of waterflow switches like the WFS is mandated by building codes and insurance requirements. These devices not only ensure life safety but also help minimize water damage through early detection. Many insurance companies offer premium reductions for properties with properly installed and maintained fire detection systems.
